I have to laugh when people ask me that question. It’s just so ironic that, 90% of the time, the same people who are asking me where I get my protein have absolutely no idea where they get any of their nutrients. If they’re asking out of genuine curiosity, I’m happy to list vegan sources of protein. However, if they’re just asking to sound annoying/combative/superior, my answer goes something like this:
Where do you get your 5 servings of fruits and veggies per day?
Where do you get your serving of leafy greens per day?
Where do you get your recommended amount of fiber?
Your Vitamin A? Vitamin C?
Or I just point out that gorillas and elephants are vegans. They certainly don’t seem to have a problem getting enough protein!
(Christmas trees have protein? Who knew???)
In actuality, it’s not true that vegetarians have a difficult time getting enough protein in their diets.
The meat industry has perpetuated the myth that people need animal protein, especially if they’re athletic. In reality, Americans get too much protein, which leaches calcium from the bones. That’s the main reason why we have one of the highest rates of osteoporosis in the world even though we also have one of the highest rates of dairy consumption. It’s not just calcium intake that’s important, it’s calcium balance.
Also, it’s easy for vegetarians to meet the RDA for protein; it exists in places you wouldn’t expect. For example, 1/3cup of oatmeal has 6 grams! Pasta too. And–surprise—even broccoli has quite a bit of protein! There’s a vegan body-building movement, too, with a website and everything. I have two good friends who are vegan body builders.
Anyone want to tell my friend, Robert Cheeke (above), that vegans don’t get enough protein? Watch your back, Jay Robb!! (Robert’s going to be a guest on the blog in the near future.)
Plus, there are the crazy-energetic marathoners like Brendan Brazier, ultramarathoners like Scott Jurek, and even some NFL, NHL, and MLB-playing vegans (such as Georges Laraque of the Montreal Canadians, who is known as “Big Georges”) . No shortage of muscle there!
natalie ditullio says
I would say that is the #1 question that I field.
Amy says
Vegan athletes consistently excel in their chosen sport, people definitely do put too much emphasis on protein…and not enough on other nutrients. My husband and I have been strictly vegan for 3 + years, and he is an avid cyclist who competes at least 6 times a year….and places in the top 5 almost 100% of the time. I bet he’s the only vegan there.. 😉
Bekah says
Aaahhh I love love love this post, mainly because you incorporated Edward and Bella. 🙂
But seriously, I mean I do get most of my protein from eggs and fish and grass-fed meats, BUT, I also eat a butt load of veggies and fruit, so I totally get where you’re coming from to those people that always criticize vegans and vegetarians. they’re probably eating white pasta and bread for the most part. sadly.
But I never doubt that the vegans in the blog world are getting the nutrients they need! And obviously, you adore being vegan. So kudos Katie! 🙂
malpaz says
I am not questioning you eating but pointing out your false facts… this statement is NOT true, and if you believe it is then please provide me with back up and reviewed or published material NOT funded by a vegan society :
“Americans get too much protein, which leaches calcium from the bones. That’s the main reason why we have one of the highest rates of osteoporosis in the world even though we also have one of the highest rates of dairy consumption”
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Malpaz,
Have you heard of “The China Study” by T. Colin Campbell, PHD (i.e. not a vegan nut)?
http://www.thechinastudy.com/PDFs/ChinaStudy_Excerpt.pdf
And here’s one more link for you (I can find many)
http://www.fwhc.org/health/high-protein-diet.htm
It’s a FACT that we have one of the highest rates of osteoporosis even though we consume some of the highest amounts of dairy and animal protein.
Jasmine Sarryeh says
Although not a vegetarian or a vegan (i did try it though!), my primary concern has never been protein when it comes to wondering about veganism. It’s been more about Iron: specifically, heme iron. Tons of veggies have iron, like spinach, but its a form of iron (non-heme) that is not easily absorbed by the body, while the iron in animal liver is easily absorbed. Also, you need to eat massive amounts of those veggies, compared to mere 2 oz serving of meat.
I’m anemic, and have a genetic factor that sometimes causes damage to my red blood cells, so i make it a point to make sure i get plenty of both sources of iron, both plant and animal based. After reading a lot on the subject, it seems like most Americans suffer from iron-deficency anemia without realizing it, symptoms of which may include sluggishness and fatigue. It affects omnivores, but more particularly hits vegan and vegetarians quite hard. I wonder if you had a perspective on this essential mineral, and thanks for the awesome blog.
-Jasmine